Rose Declines Bennett's Debate Requests in Senate Race

The race is on for S.C. Senate District 38 as challenger Sean Bennett challenged incumbent Sen. Mike Rose to multiple debates leading up to the June primary.

But Rose tells Patch he doesn't have time due to his responsibilities in the Senate. 

In a press release, Bennett made the challenge to Rose, requesting a series of public debates and proposed five topics: Education, Jobs and the Economy, Leadership, Vision and Effectiveness, the State Pension System, and Roads and Infrastructure.

"I am asking Sen. Rose to join me in discussing the important issues that face our community, rather than relying on carefully-scripted press releases and controlled messaging," Bennett said in the statement. 

When asked if he would participate, Rose said he would decline.

"I am working around the clock to perform my Senate duties; the Senate session is in full swing and requires my attention," Rose wrote in an email.

He added that he and Bennett will speak at a Chamber of Commerce event and also speak at the Lowcountry GOP Breakfast.